I signed up for the Rev3 half Ironman race in Portland, OR, on July 10th. I am very excited, and really looking forward to both the race itself and the training to get ready. Portland, OR, is such a cool city, and to have a big triathlon race in downtown is awesome. And spending a few days there before and after the race will also be a lot of fun. The course description sounds great: A swim in the Willamette River, a hilly bike loop South of the city and a half marathon through downtown Portland. I am particularly excited about the fact that the bike course is hilly, that should suit me well.

The Portland race is organized by Revolution3, which is a competing race series to the WTC Ironman and Challenge series. I think it is beneficial for the sport to have several competing organizers of long distance triathlons, it should increase quality and race experience. When you look at what you get for your entry fee at the Revolution3 race, there is no doubt that the participants have benefited from the competition between the different organizers. Revelolution3 has an excellent athlete transfer and withdrawal policy, and a race shirt, a finisher shirt, and a towel is included in the price. Of course, the participants' satisfaction is mainly determined by whether the race is well organized or not, but this is a very good start!

http://www.rev3tri.com/!/portland/registration.htm